Uttarakhand Governor Dr KK Paul has said that yoga is the great heritage of India whose scientific nature has been accepted by the entire world. It is not just for the body but an entire way of life which ensures clarity of mind, peace for the soul and a balanced existence. It provides a positive energy to people and takes them towards creativity. He said it was a matter of pride that the message of the richness of Indian culture and a healthy life was being propagated throughout the world by the International Yoga Festival.
“Rishikesh, the land where our rishis and munis meditated, has now established itself as the international Yoga capital,” said the Governor as the chief guest at the closing function of the international Yoga festival at Rishikesh (held from March 1 to 7) in which Yoga enthusiasts and experts from 85 countries participated. He further said that Yoga not only enhanced the physical energy but also developed mental strength and will power .”It can keep a person stress-free and inspire him or her to be a Karmyogi.”
The fact that hundreds of people participated in this week-long event was a good sign for tourism in the state. He said that the growing popularity of Yoga globally could make Uttarakhand the most important and leading place for Yoga in the world. The Governor said this festival was a good opportunity for enhancing harmony among people from various countries who gathered here every year.
Swami Chidanand of Parmarth Niketan,tourism minister Dinesh Dhanai and secretary (tourism) Shailesh Bagauli were present there besides several officials , Yoga enthusiasts and Yogacharyas.